Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake: A Deliciously Easy Recipe for Seafood Lovers

Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake is a delightful dish that brings together the rich flavors of succulent shrimp, garlic, and creamy cheese, all enveloped in perfectly cooked pasta. This recipe is not just a meal; it’s a celebration of comfort food that has roots in Italian-American cuisine. Traditionally, shrimp scampi is a quick sauté of shrimp in garlic and butter, but this baked version elevates it to a hearty casserole that’s perfect for family gatherings or cozy weeknight dinners.

People adore Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake for its incredible taste and texture. The combination of tender shrimp, al dente pasta, and a golden, cheesy topping creates a symphony of flavors that is both satisfying and indulgent. Plus, it’s a convenient dish that can be prepared ahead of time, making it an ideal choice for busy evenings. Join me as we dive into this scrumptious recipe that is sure to become a favorite in your household!

Ingredients:

• 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 8 ounces pasta (linguine or spaghetti works best)
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 4 tablespoons olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
• 1 cup dry white wine (like Sauvignon Blanc)
• 1 lemon, zested and juiced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for topping
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (optional, for topping)

Preparing the Pasta

1. Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. This is crucial for flavoring the pasta as it cooks. 2. Once the water is boiling, add the pasta and cook it according to the package instructions until it is al dente. This usually takes about 8-10 minutes. 3. Drain the pasta in a colander and set it aside. Make sure to reserve about 1 cup of the pasta water for later use.

Cooking the Shrimp

4. In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil and 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. 5. Once the butter has melted and the mixture is hot, add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes. Sauté for about 1 minute until the garlic is fragrant but not browned. 6. Add the shrimp to the skillet, seasoning them with salt and pepper. Cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and opaque. 7. Once the shrimp are cooked, remove them from the skillet and set them aside on a plate.

Making the Sauce

8. In the same skillet, pour in the white wine and bring it to a simmer. Let it cook for about 3-4 minutes, allowing the alcohol to evaporate and the flavors to concentrate. 9. Stir in the lemon zest and juice, followed by the heavy cream. Mix well and let it simmer for another 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly. 10. Add the cooked shrimp back into the skillet, along with the grated Parmesan cheese. Stir until the cheese melts and the shrimp are well coated in the sauce. 11. If the sauce seems too thick, add a bit of the reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency.

Combining the Ingredients

12. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta with the shrimp and sauce mixture. 13. Add the chopped parsley and mix everything together until the pasta is evenly coated. Taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt, pepper, or lemon juice if needed.

Assembling the Bake

14. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). 15. Grease a large baking dish with the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter or a bit of olive oil. 16. Pour the pasta and shrimp mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly. 17. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese over the top, followed by a generous layer of additional Parmesan cheese. 18. If you like a crunchy topping, sprinkle the breadcrumbs evenly over the cheese layer.

Baking the Dish

19. Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown. 20. Keep an eye on it towards the end to prevent over-browning. If the top is browning too quickly, you can cover it loosely with aluminum foil.

Serving the Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake

21. Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and let it cool for about 5-10 minutes. This will help the dish set a bit, making it easier to serve. 22. Garnish with additional chopped parsley for a fresh touch and serve warm. This Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake is perfect for a cozy family dinner or a gathering with friends. The combination of succulent shrimp, creamy sauce, and cheesy goodness is sure to impress everyone at the table. Enjoy every bite!

Conclusion:

In conclusion, this Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake is an absolute must-try for anyone looking to elevate their weeknight dinner or impress guests at a gathering. The combination of succulent shrimp, perfectly cooked pasta, and a rich, garlicky sauce creates a dish that is not only comforting but also bursting with flavor. Plus, the ease of preparation makes it a go-to recipe for busy evenings or special occasions alike. For serving suggestions, I recommend pairing this delightful bake with a crisp green salad and a glass of white wine to complement the dish’s flavors. If you’re feeling adventurous, consider adding a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a bit of heat or tossing in some fresh spinach or cherry tomatoes for added color and nutrition. You can also experiment with different types of pasta or even substitute the shrimp with chicken or a medley of vegetables for a vegetarian twist. I truly encourage you to give this Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake a try. I promise you won’t be disappointed! Once you’ve made it, I’d love to hear about your experience. Share your thoughts, any variations you tried, or even a photo of your creation. Let’s spread the love for this delicious dish together! Happy cooking!

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